Main Entry: ab·solve

Pronunciation: \əb-ˈzälv, -ˈsälv, -ˈzȯlv, -ˈsȯlv also without l\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): ab·solved; ab·solv·ing

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin absolvere, from ab- + solvere to loosen — more at solve

Date: 15th century

1 : to set free from an obligation or the consequences of guilt
2 : to remit (a sin) by absolution

synonyms see exculpate

— ab·solv·er noun